Grim Magic (Book 4 of the Ink Series)

This is what fame feels like

The place was packed.

People were elbow to elbow in the new club that opened up a couple of weeks ago on the boardwalk. And somehow Slade and Kidd managed to score a gig. It surprised me because most of Cherry was against anything to do with them. But not this club.

The air was filled with this static that made everything much more exciting, it was an instant high to walk into a club and feel energy all around you. People were excited to hear Slade and the rest of the band play. And so was I. For once he could do something he loved and not worry about anything else but the music.

And he looked so hot backstage going over everything with the rest of the band. He was wearing nothing but an amazing pair of jeans and a black baseball cap with his usual aviators. Tattoos out for the entire world to see and I loved every one of them.

I caught a glimpse out the door at the crowd. "There are people here as old as my dad." I mentioned to Karsen who was sitting next to me.

"Yeah and they are dressed like they are twenty, it's disgusting. Nobody wants to see side boob on grandma." Karsen shook her head.

It was quite the turnout and I was happy for them regardless of the age of the scantily clad.

Kidd clapped his hand grabbing everyone's attention. "I think we should have a celebration drink before we go on. For good luck. God knows we need it in this town."

Erica shook her head. "Oh shut up, they will love you. Who wouldn't you guys rock."

We all agreed. Slade slipped an arm around me and pulled me close. "You look like you're in a better mood." He looked down at me.

I nodded. "I am. I'm excited for you."

He touched my hat. "You look hot. And those shorts make your legs look killer."

I touched the collar of my flannel. "You mean I don't look like some goody two shoes?" I shot a look in Karsen's direction.

She threw her hands up in defense. "All I said was show some boobs."

Slade shook his head. "You look hot." We kissed. And soon Kidd was back at all of us about the celebratory toast.

Slade tugged me close and cleared his throat. "Alright, alright. Everyone get your asses outside before Kidd loses his shit."

I followed behind Slade down the hall to the back of the club to the exit. We made it around speakers and band equipment and outside to sand and warm air. It wasn't much of a difference from the inside. With all the body heat it felt like the place's air condition broke.

Slade and I took a seat on top of one of the old picnic tables. Kidd pulled out a flask. He raised it. "I just want to say a few things before the show."

Slade groaned. "Don't go getting emotional."

I smirked.

"Henry park will forever be our home, but there comes a time when we have to move on. And tonight is the night." He took a swig and handed it to Karsen.

"I don't have anything to say other than you guys are the best and ever since I moved here I feel like I have found my place in the world. As long as Kidd is by my side I know I can do anything." Karsen smiled and threw her head back, she wiped the side of her mouth and crossed the sand to me. "Top that, bitch."

I rubbed the back of my neck taking the flask from her. I hated public speeches of any kind. And I wasn't one to come up with anything clever to say either. "This is only one step toward an incredible future. And I am glad to be along for the ride."